Hi Found this axe head out in the bush, northern Vancouver island, near large old rotten stumps (some 8ft across, others more). All the stumps have at least four plank scars (two on each side, so dudes could stand and saw with a two man saw). so gave me the impression these were downed some time ago. Was hoping to figure out if this axe head was old (as in 80+ years old) or just old (as in left out there 5 years ago). No actual brand is imprinted, other than what looks like a 3 (for 3 lbs?) And the other distinguishing marks are that it has what appears to be two screw holes, for pinning to the handle? Would be superb any help at all -thank you! I've uploaded 4 pics
I collect old trade axes and tomahawks, some dating back to the 1600's and older. That particular Axe looks to be a early to mid 19th century handmade felling axe, and given your location could very well be something that was traded by the Hudson Bay Trade Co. I can't be certain but it has the look and style of such a piece. Either way, the fact that you found it it the bush is fascinating. .....imagine how long it's been laying there!
You can tell the head had to be pinned to the head because they beat so many wedges in with it. As you guys probably know, the worst thing you can do to a pole axe like this is beat in wedges. Because of the shape of the hole for the axe handle, beating in wedges forces the steel outward from the sides of the axe handle (oblongs the hole) so the head slips out, therefore pinning was required. A two bit axe works much better for beating in wedges because you pound them in with the side of the blade and thus do not oblong the head. But here in Maine where the pole axe was practically born, getting a two bit axe is like finding Douglas Fir; pretty darn rare. Too bad. I had a nice one a few years ago but left it in the woods, I got it narrowed down to about 10 acres though!
Some of the swede mil issue axes I've seen were pinned, it was a tool , destined for abuse. Mighty Mouse Logging LLC